Stethoscope cleaning assembly

ABSTRACT

An assembly structured to clean the head portion of a stethoscope comprising a housing including a path of travel along which the head portion passes during cleaning. A supply of cleaning fluid is associated with a dispenser assembly which is cooperatively disposed relative to an activating assembly. The activating assembly is manually operated due to moveable engagement with the head portion as it travels along the path of travel. The activating assembly is thereby operatively positioned to activate the dispenser assembly when engaged by the head portion as it passes along the path of travel. The dispenser assembly delivers the cleaning fluid to an applicator assembly which distributes the cleaning fluid to the head portion and facilitates the cleaning thereof and removal of excess cleaning fluid there from.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application is a Continuation-In-Part application ofpreviously filed, now pending application having Ser. No. 12/079,077filed on Mar. 24, 2008, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patentapplication having Ser. No. 11/728,207, filed on Mar. 23, 2007, whichmatured into U.S. Pat. No. 7,406,973 on Aug. 5, 2008, all of which areincorporated herein in their entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention is directed to an assembly structured to clean the headportion of a stethoscope comprising a housing including a path of travelalong which the head portion passes during cleaning. A supply ofcleaning fluid is associated with a dispenser assembly which iscooperatively disposed relative to an activating assembly. Theactivating assembly is operatively positioned to activate the dispenserassembly when engaged by the head portion as it passes along the path oftravel. The dispenser assembly delivers the cleaning fluid to anapplicator assembly or at least to an area communicating with theapplicator assembly, which distributes the cleaning fluid to the headportion and facilitates the cleaning thereof and removal of excesscleaning fluid there from.

2. Description of the Related Art

As is well recognized in the medical profession and commonlyacknowledged by many individuals not directly associated with themedical care industry, the use of a stethoscope by health care providersis routine. As typically applied, the head and/or diaphragm portion ofthe stethoscope is normally placed in direct contact with the skin ofthe patient at various locations over the patient's body. In applyingthe stethoscope in this manner and in particular in situations where thestethoscope head or diaphragm may be exposed to the bodily fluids of thepatient, the transmission of infection from patient to patient is adistinct possibility.

While some stethoscopes are structured for disposal after each use, agreat number of stethoscope instruments are non-disposable and areintended for continued and repeated use. This latter category ofstethoscopes are typically carried by the health care provider on asubstantially continuous basis and used repeatedly for examination ofmultiple patients. In order to avoid the transmission of infection frompatient to patient when using this latter category of instruments,attempts have been made to facilitate at least a minimal cleaning and/ordisinfecting of the head portion of the stethoscope. However, because oftime demands, emergency situations and other situations which frequentlyoccur, a health care provider may only perform a minimal cleaning of theinstrument on an occasional basis. Such cursory cleaning procedures mayinvolve a physical wiping of the head and diaphragm portions of thestethoscope with some type of disinfecting or cleaning material wipe.Although, these cursory cleaning procedures may be effective, they areburdensome, time consuming and require the ready availability of thesewipes. Furthermore, while available and inexpensive, these wipes havegenerally not been integrated into routine physician practice.

In order to overcome problems of the type set forth above, attempts havebeen made to develop various types of cleaning devices and/or systemswhich are intended to provide a more thorough, effective cleaning of atleast the head and/or diaphragm portions of the stethoscope. However,many known or conventional devices, while being at least minimallyoperative to accomplish their intended purpose, also suffer fromnumerous disadvantages. Such disadvantages generally relate toaccomplishing an effective cleaning, disinfecting or possiblesterilization of the instrument and the fact that many of such knowncleaning devices are difficult or too time consuming for convenient use.

To better appreciate the requirements necessary to accomplish a propercleaning and disinfecting of the stethoscope head, it is important tounderstand the various structural components thereof and their intendeduse during an examination procedure. More specifically, the stethoscopehead typically includes a diaphragm portion comprising a thin disk ofappropriate material that is disposed in confronting relation to apatient's skin. As such, the diaphragm forms an acoustical seal with thecontacted portion of the patient. In addition, the head portion alsoincludes a ring or rim which retains or is otherwise disposed andstructured for supportive engagement with the diaphragm. Finally, thestethoscope head includes a base or spine of the head formed of metal orother composite base material that is structured to serve as thelocation where the user may grasp the device comfortably, usually with athumb and one or two fingers of a single hand. A magnification andtransmission of the sounds detected during the examination procedure isthereby accomplished. In addition, an appropriate conduit or tubingwhich may be formed of a rubber or like material is secured to the headand extends outwardly there from so as to interconnect the ear pieces ofthe stethoscope to the head portion.

Health care associated (nosocomial) infections are a growing concern forhospitals in the United States and worldwide. Approximately, two millionpatients admitted to U.S. hospitals each year acquire a health careassociated infection. Of these, more than seventy thousand will die.These infections add about $30 billion annually to U.S. healthcare cost.

The transfer of pathogenic bacteria from one patient to another is amajor cause of healthcare associated infections. This transfer may befacilitated by healthcare workers who do not adequately clean anddisinfect their hands and/or patient-care equipment after patientcontact.

Stethoscopes harbor pathogenic bacteria. Bacteria may be transferred tointact human skin directly from a stethoscope diaphragm. Stethoscopediaphragm and rim (the portions of the stethoscope that directly contactthe patient's skin) may be adequately disinfected and cleaned by one orseveral wipes with a prepackaged isopropyl alcohol pad or swab. However,the majority of healthcare workers do not clean or disinfect theirstethoscope after each patient encounter. Less than half of workersclean their stethoscopes daily or even weekly. Common reasons for notcleaning or disinfecting stethoscopes are that the alcohol pads andswabs are not readily available, are messy, time consuming to use andrequire disposal.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends thathealthcare workers dedicate the use of non-critical care equipment to asingle patient. If this is not possible, then it is recommended thatthese items be adequately cleaned and disinfected before being used onanother patient. These recommendations are specifically for patientsthat are known or suspected to harbor pathogenic organisms. However, theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that for allpatients receiving care in a hospital, an item of patient care equipmentmust not be reused on another patient until it has been cleaned andreprocessed appropriately. The American Medical Association has alsoresolved that healthcare providers should frequently clean theirstethoscopes to prevent the spread of nosocomial infections.

Accordingly, there is a need for a device that allows healthcareproviders to rapidly and safely clean and disinfect their stethoscopediaphragm and rim before and after examining a patient. Such a proposeddevice should be located conveniently in the patient's room orexamination area and preferably be wall mounted. Moreover such aproposed cleaning assembly should be preferably structured to facilitatea single, rapid swipe through the proposed device by a stethoscopeoperator so as to adequately clean and disinfect the stethoscopediaphragm and rim. These are the elements of a stethoscope that come incontact with a patient and are an important potential source ofnosocomial infections. Accordingly, a proposed invention should providea novel, inexpensive, safe, convenient and time efficient solution tothe potential stethoscope-to-patient transmission of infectious agentssuch as viruses, bacteria and fungi.

It will be preferable if a proposed stethoscope cleaning anddisinfecting device had the following additional features in order toovercome disadvantages and problems recognized with prior art orconventional cleaning devices. The proposed device should safely enclosethe disinfecting agent to prevent spillage and dissuade tampering. Aftercleaning and disinfecting the stethoscope's diaphragm and rim, thedevice should remove excess disinfecting agent so as to not leave anexcessive amount of this agent on the diaphragm or rim.

Further, any such cleaning device that is located in a patient's room orin an examination area may, over time, have its exterior surfacecontaminated by pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, it is essential that toprevent further spread of pathogenic bacteria, a proposed device shouldallow the operator to avoid touching the device with his or her handsduring the stethoscope cleaning and disinfecting procedure.

In light of the above, there is a long standing and well recognized needin the medical profession for a cleaning assembly and an attendantprocedure which effectively, quickly and reliably serve to clean anddisinfect the head portion and/or at least the exposed diaphragm andsupportive rim thereof. Such a proposed cleaning assembly should bestructured to effectively isolate at least the diaphragm of the headportion from the surrounding environment during the cleaning procedure.In addition a proposed cleaning assembly should be structured to apply,clean and remove excess cleaning fluid from the diaphragm and/or otheradjacent or contiguous components of the head portion.

As set forth above, an improved cleaning assembly should be capable ofeffectively isolating the diaphragm and similarly exposed portions ofthe head of the stethoscope and segregate the hands of the user from thecleaning area of the proposed cleaning assembly. As such, a cleaningprocedure associated with the proposed cleaning assembly should occur onthe interior of an appropriately structured and dimensioned housing. Anappropriate housing of the proposed cleaning assembly should alsoprevent excessive fluid from escaping and eliminate the possibility ofthe hand of the user contaminating the diaphragm and/or rim during thecleaning procedure.

Finally, such a proposed cleaning assembly should be relatively simplein operation and structure and also include components that facilitatethe replacement of the intended cleaning fluid and any non-durableelements without undue interference with the remaining operativecomponents associated with the proposed cleaning assembly. Further, aproposed assembly of this type to be described in greater detailhereinafter may include additional preferred embodiments comprisingreplaceable components of varying function. These replaceable componentsmay preferably include, but not be limited to, a receptacle or sump,portions of the applicator assembly including, but not limited to, anapplicator member, a cleaning member and a member that removes excesscleaning fluid from the portions of the stethoscope to which thecleaning fluid is applied. All of the above components may be of durableor nondurable materials. The ability to replace at least some of thesecomponents as a single combined and/or interconnected unit facilitatesthe ease of use and versatility of the proposed cleaning assembly.

A further useful, novel and unique feature of the various replaceablecomponents of the proposed cleaning assembly relate to an appropriatelystructured and disposed indicator assembly which may include a floatinglevel indicator and/or a window or appropriate viewing structure formedin the housing. Moreover, the indicator assembly and the variousproposed components associated therewith will function to apprise theuser when the cleaning fluid needs to be replaced.

As such, a proposed cleaning assembly of the type set forth in greaterdetail hereinafter, should be capable of a long operable life even whenexposed to continuous use and a relatively harsh working environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a cleaning assembly structured toclean a head portion, including at least an exposed diaphragm andsupporting rim of the stethoscope, as well as other exposed portionswhich come into contact with a patient's body. As generally used, it isrecognized that the terms “clean” and/or “disinfect” may be strictlyinterpreted as referring to different procedures intended to accomplishdifferent results. By way of example, the term “clean” and “cleanse” maybe typically used in situations where it is intended to remove dirt,impurities, debris, contaminants, etc. In contrast, the term “disinfect”may be used to remove or kill harmful microorganisms or render themharmless. However, as used herein the terms “clean”, “cleanse” and/or“cleaning action” are meant to encompass all of the above cleaning anddisinfecting procedures. The category or degree of “cleaning” in apractical application of the present invention will be at leastpartially dependent on the cleaning fluid to which the head portion ofthe stethoscope is exposed.

By way of example, a most preferred embodiment of the present inventionmay incorporate the use of a cleaning fluid comprising an alcohol basedcomposition. More specifically, the cleaning fluid used in the operationof the present invention may include, but is not limited to, anantimicrobial fluid. Moreover, the cleaning fluid is applied in anappropriate manner to the exposed surfaces of the diaphragm, supportiverim and possibly other adjacent or contiguous portions associated withthe head portion of the stethoscope. Therefore, other factors to beconsidered are the type of wiping, scrubbing, brushing or other types ofphysical engagement or contact to which the head portion is subjectedduring the cleaning procedure. Accordingly, with the aboveacknowledgement to the strict definitions of the above terms, the use ofthe term “clean”, “cleaning”, and/or “cleaning action” are also meant toencompass all of the above noted procedures, the various types ofcleaning fluids capable of being used as well as any of a variety ofdifferent types of physical engagement or contact applied to theportions of the head of the stethoscope being treated.

Therefore, the cleaning assembly of the present invention comprises ahousing including an at least partially hollow interior of sufficientdimension and configuration to include various other operativecomponents of the cleaning assembly therein. More specifically, thehousing includes an entrance portion and an exit portion disposed inspaced relation to one another. The entrance and exit are respectivelydimensioned and configured to facilitate the entering of the headportion of the stethoscope and the removal thereof from the interior ofthe housing. Further, the housing includes a path of travel extendingbetween and disposed in communicating relation with both the entranceand exit portions. Moreover, the entrance, exit and path of travel arecooperatively disposed and structured to facilitate movement or passageof the head portion along the path of travel at least partially on theinterior of the housing.

When the head portion is passing along the path of travel, thediaphragm, supporting rim and other contiguous parts of the head portionare segregated from the exterior of the housing and ambient conditionsassociated therewith. It is further emphasized that in order to increasethe efficiency and effectiveness of the cleaning procedure, the housingas well as the path of travel and other components to be described ingreater detail hereinafter are selectively structured, disposed anddimensioned so as to facilitate passage of the head along the path oftravel and between the entrance and exit portions by means of a single“swiping” action. Such a swiping action eliminates the requirement orneed for a successive, reciprocal or repetitive type of movement of thehead portion on the interior of the housing and along the path of travelin order to accomplish an effective cleaning thereof as intended.

Additional structural and operative features of the present inventioninclude a fluid supply mounted on the interior of the housing andcomprising at least one but, in other preferred embodiments, a pluralityof fluid reservoirs. Each of the one or more fluid reservoirs isstructured to contain a “cleaning” fluid disposed therein. Further, eachof the fluid reservoirs is associated with a dispenser assemblypreferably, but not exclusively, defined by a pump assembly. Each pumpassembly associated with each of the fluid reservoirs is, in at leastone preferred embodiment of the present invention, mechanically orotherwise forcibly operated at least partially concurrently to thepassage of the head portion of the stethoscope along the aforementionedpath of travel. In addition an indicator assembly is associated with thefluid supply and/or at least one of the fluid reservoirs. Such anindicator assembly may take the form of a window and/or associated floatstructure disposed and structured to facilitate an accuratedetermination of the existing quantity of cleaning fluid remaining inthe cleaning fluid supply.

In order to effectively dispense the cleaning fluid from each of the oneor more fluid reservoirs, the present invention also includes anactivating assembly disposed within the housing and movable between aninitial position and an operative position. As such, the activatingassembly includes at least one but more practically, a plurality ofactivating members preferably, but not necessarily, corresponding innumber to the number of fluid reservoirs and associated dispenserassemblies, as set forth above.

In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention the versatility,safety and efficiency of the cleaning assembly is further demonstratedby the elimination of the need for any supplemental power. Supplementalpower, in the form of an electrically driven motor, has been employed inother devices with a similar purpose. The use of an electrically drivenmotor poses to the user the risks of malfunction, fire, electrical shockor explosion. The risk of fire and explosion are even greater whenconsidering that the vast majority of preferred cleaning fluids forequipment cleaning are alcohol based and flammable. Other known cleaningassemblies, while not employing a motor or flammable cleaning fluid, doutilize high voltage electricity (200-1,000 volts), which exposes theuser to the risk of electrocution. Also, known devices of this type posea risk of UV light exposure to the user or others in the vicinity of thedevice, when in use.

Moreover, the cooperative positioning and structuring of the variousoperative components of the cleaning assembly provide for the dispenserand application of the cleaning fluid from the one or more fluidreservoirs onto an applicator assembly and from the applicator assemblyon to the diaphragm, rim and other surfaces or parts of the head portionintended to be cleaned. Further, the force required to physically passthe head portion along the aforementioned path of travel will result inthe dispenser of the cleaning fluid from the one or more reservoirs.More specifically, the activating assembly, including the one or moreactivating members, originally assumes an initial position. Such initialposition comprises the one or more activating members disposed ininterruptive relation to the path of travel and more specifically to thehead portion as it travels along the path of travel. As such, the headportion, during such passage will engage and drivingly force each of theone or more activating members from the initial position to theirrespective operative positions. Accordingly, the operative position ofeach of the activating members comprises their driving, activating oroperating disposition relative to each of the dispenser assembliesassociated with respective ones of the fluid reservoirs. As set forthabove, the dispenser assemblies may preferably include a mechanical orotherwise forcibly driven pump mechanism. Therefore, each of theactivating members and possibly mechanical linkage associated therewithserve to appropriately operate the pump assemblies so as to dispense thecleaning fluid onto an applicator assembly for distribution onto theappropriate portions of the head of the stethoscope.

Moreover, the applicator assembly is disposed and structured to applycleaning fluid to the diaphragm and other appropriate portions of thehead of the stethoscope, which contact the applicator assembly as thehead of the stethoscope passes along the path of travel. The applicatorassembly is also disposed and structured to provide a cleaning andpossibly a mildly abrasive or scrubbing action to the head portion andin at least some preferred embodiments, remove excess cleaning fluidtherefrom. The above set forth cleaning procedure is accomplished on theinterior of the housing prior to removal of the head portion through theaforementioned exit. In addition, the applicator assembly, in at leastsome of the embodiments of the present invention, may be removablymounted on the interior of the housing, as part of a removable,replaceable cartridge, so as to facilitate replacement and/ormaintenance thereof when needed.

Accordingly, the structural and operative features of the cleaningassembly of the present invention allow for the utilization of a singleswiping action which is unique and distinguishable from known orconventional stethoscope cleaning assemblies. Moreover, in a single,smooth, one-handed, unidirectional swiping maneuver, the operator bringsthe stethoscope head into the interior chamber of the housing of thedevice. In the same swiping maneuver, the operator brings thestethoscope head in contact with the one or more activating membersthereby forcibly driving the one or more activating members into anoperative position to actively dispense cleaning fluid onto theaforementioned applicator assembly. In the same swiping maneuver, theoperator brings the diaphragm and rim portions of the stethoscope headinto operative contact with the various components of the applicatorassembly. This serves to distribute cleaning fluid across the diaphragmand rim in such a manner as to clean the diaphragm and rim. In the sameswiping maneuver, the operator brings the diaphragm and rim portions ofthe stethoscope head into activating contact with a cleaning member ofthe applicator assembly, which serves to remove dirt, debris andcontaminants from the stethoscope diaphragm and rim, and distributes thecleaning solution over the rim and diaphragm. In the same swipingmaneuver, the operator brings the diaphragm and rim portions of thestethoscope head into activating contact with an additional member ofthe applicator assembly that serves to remove excess cleaning fluid,thereby at least partially drying the diaphragm and rim. In the sameswiping maneuver, the operator brings the stethoscope head further alongthe path of travel until it exits the interior chamber of the housing.The end result of this single, smooth, one-handed, unidirectionalswiping maneuver is a disinfected, cleaned and at least partially drieddiaphragm and rim of the stethoscope head.

Accordingly, the structural and operative features of the stethoscopecleaning assembly of the present invention overcome many if not all ofthe disadvantages of known or conventional devices. More specifically,such conventional devices typically require the use of two hands, one tohold the stethoscope and the other to depress or push an activatingstructure on the conventional cleaning devices. Any lever or buttonlocated externally to a conventional cleaning device may become infectedor contaminated by the external environment. If a user touches anexternal lever or button with a hand, the user's hand may becomeinfected or contaminated with potentially dangerous microorganismslocated on the lever or button. The present invention avoids thispotential serious contamination risk by the elimination of any externalactivating buttons, levers or like members. Yet other conventional orknown cleaning assemblies require a separate wiping maneuver to dry thestethoscope head on a pad external to the device. An external pad isless advantageous in that this pad is also susceptible to infection andcontamination by the external environment. This infection andcontamination may be spread to the user's stethoscope during the dryingmaneuver. The present invention, which lacks an external pad or likestructure avoids this potentially serious contamination risk.

Therefore, the cleaning assembly of the present invention comprisesstructural and operative features which facilitate the cleaning, and/ordisinfecting of the diaphragm, rim and other appropriate portions of thehead of the stethoscope in a quick, effective and reliable manner so asto overcome many of the disadvantages and problems associated with knownor conventional cleaning assemblies intended for this purpose.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become clearer when the drawings as well as the detaileddescription are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention,reference should be had to the following detailed description taken inconnection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view in partial schematic form of a cleaning assemblyof the present invention wherein the various operative componentsthereof are in an initial and/or non-activating position.

FIG. 2 is an exterior perspective view of the preferred embodiment ofFIG. 1 of the cleaning assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an interior perspective view of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and2 including a closure or gate assembly, which restricts unauthorizedaccess to the interior of the cleaning assembly of the present inventionand exposure of a user to cleaning fluid dispensed on the interior ofthe cleaning assembly.

FIG. 4 is an interior perspective view of various operative componentsof the present invention in an initial position.

FIG. 5 is an interior perspective view of the present invention whereincertain components are in an operative or activated position fordispensing of cleaning fluid.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of thepresent invention directed to fluid supply assembly and applicatorassembly structurally combined as part of a replaceable cartridgeremovably mounted within an interior of a housing of the cleaningassembly.

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the embodiment of at least one preferredembodiment of the present invention in partial schematic form, whereinthe head portion of the stethoscope is disposed for cleaning and variousoperative components of an applicator assembly are disposed in anoperative position.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view in exploded form of a plurality ofthe operative components collectively comprising at least a portion of alinkage assembly serving to operatively interconnect the activatingassembly to a fluid supply assembly for the dispensing of cleaning fluidonto the head of the stethoscope being cleaned.

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view in exploded form of the operativecomponents associated with the embodiments of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of yet another preferred embodimentof a replaceable cartridge assembly structured to be removably mountedwithin the housing of the cleaning assembly.

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of yet another preferred embodimentof a replaceable cartridge assembly structured to be removably mountedwithin the housing of the cleaning assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a rear view of the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several viewsof the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

As shown in the accompanying drawings, the present invention is directedto a cleaning assembly 10 for the head of a stethoscope. The cleaningassembly 10 includes a housing 12 having a hollow interior of sufficientdimension and configuration to contain a plurality of operativecomponents to be described in greater detail hereinafter. As alsodescribed, the cleaning assembly 10 is specifically structured to“clean” the diaphragm, supportive rim and other exposed portions of thehead which are brought into direct contact with a patient's body. Morespecifically, the head portion 14 as represented in FIG. 10 includes adiaphragm 16 and supportive and/or surrounding rim portion 18 generallyassociated with an exposed face or patient contacting portion 20 of thestethoscope head 14. Additional features relating to the manipulation orplacement of the head 14 comprise the structuring of the housing 12, aswell as other operative components associated therewith, whichfacilitates a user grasping of the spine or stem portion 22 located onthe exterior of the housing 12 with a single hand during the cleaningprocedure. As such, the cleaning of the head 14 can be effectivelyaccomplished by the user performing a single, unidirectional, one-handed“swiping” motion of the head 14 causing it to pass on the interior ofthe housing 12 and along a predetermined path of travel, as at 30, 31,explained in greater detail hereinafter.

With primary reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing 12 includes anentrance portion 24 and an exit portion 26 respectively defined byopenings in one face or surface of the housing 12. The entrance and exitopenings 24 and 26 are dimensioned and configured to facilitate thepassage of the head portion 14 respectively into and out of the interiorof the housing 12. In addition, the housing 12 further includes theaforementioned path of travel of the head portion 14, which is at leastpartially defined by an elongated channel 30, disposed between and incommunication with both the entrance 24 and exit 26. Further, thelongitudinal dimension of the path of travel and/or open channel 30 issuch as to facilitate travel or passage of the head portion 14 intocooperative relation with the various operative components which performthe cleansing procedure as set also forth in greater detail hereinafter.

Similarly, the transverse dimension or width of the channel 30facilitates passage of the head portion 14 along the path of travel in amanner which at least partially segregates the spine or stem 22, beinggripped by a single hand of the user, on the exterior of the housing 12.As such, the user will not be exposed or have ready access to theinterior path of travel within the housing 12 and the various operativecomponents of the assembly 10. Further, the dispensing of a cleaningfluid and the application of that cleaning fluid to the diaphragm 16 andother appropriate surface portions of the head 14 is substantiallyretained on the interior of the housing 12.

In order to facilitate the prevention of the cleaning fluid from exitingthrough the open channel 30 of the housing 12, as well as preventtampering or an unauthorized access to the interior of the housing orcasing 12, the present invention includes a closure or gate assemblybest represented in FIG. 3. More specifically, the closure or gateassembly is generally indicated as 42 and includes two gate members 44and 46 normally disposed in a closed orientation as represented in FIG.3. The gate members 44 and 46 are interconnected by connecting bracketsor linkage 62, 62′ interconnecting with attachment links 66 extendingthrough aperture 68 in the gate member 44 and 46. The provision of abiasing spring 62″, associated with at least one of the connecting links62, serves to bias the gate members 44 and 46 in the closed, originalposition of FIG. 3. However, upon placement of the stethoscope head 14through the entrance portion 24 of the casing 12 and by further movementof the head 14, using the aforementioned swiping action exerted thereon,the gate members 44 and 46 will be forcibly separated from one anotherinto an open position. The open position comprises a separation of thegate members 44 and 46 a sufficient distance to allow passage of thehead 14 therebetween and along the length of the predetermined path oftravel 30, 31.

Upon removal of the head 14 from the housing 12 through the exit portion26, the gate members 44 and 46 will become disengaged from the headportion allowing them to assume the original, closed position of FIG. 3.This is due, at least in part, to the biasing force exerted thereon bythe biasing spring 62″. Also, when in the closed position of FIG. 3, anyexcessive spillage or over spray of the cleaning fluid will be preventedfrom exiting the casing 12 through the elongated channel 30, therebysegregating the user from such excess exposure to the cleaning fluid. Asshould be apparent, the disposition of the gate members 44 and 46 in theclosed position of FIG. 3 will also restrict or lessen the possibilityof tampering with the internal operative and structural components ofthe cleaning assembly 10. As such, the user will not be exposedspillage, over-spray or any excessive amounts of the cleaning fluidduring or after the cleaning procedure.

With primary reference to FIG. 10, the aforementioned path of travel isalso schematically and partially defined by directional arrow 31 whichis intended to represent the direction of travel of the diaphragm 16 andother portions of the head 14 as it travels on the interior of thehousing 12, along the path of travel 30 by virtue of the single,unidirectional, swiping action exerted on the head 14 by the user.

Additional structural and operative features of the cleaning assembly 10include a fluid supply generally indicated as 32 and more specificallycomprising at least one, but possibly a plurality of fluid reservoirs 34and 34′. Each of the fluid reservoirs 34 and 34′, and accordingly thefluid supply 32, is structured to contain an appropriate quantity ofcleaning fluid. As represented in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 the fluid supply 32may also include a fluid supply cartridge 32′ having an access opening33 to facilitate filling thereof. Moreover, the supply container 32′ maybe connected in fluid communication with the fluid reservoirs 34 and34′, so as to supply cleaning fluid thereto. As further represented thefluid supply assembly 32 and the structural and operative componentsassociated therewith are removably mounted and/or connected to asupporting frame 35 on the interior of the casing 12, preferably as partof a replaceable cartridge 100. An alternative but additional preferredembodiment comprises each of the fluid reservoirs 34 and 34′ containingan independent supply of cleaning fluid. Regardless of which embodimentof the cleaning fluid supply 32 is utilized, the composition of thecleaning fluid is preferably alcohol based and may comprise anantimicrobial liquid. The cleaning fluid is thereby formulated to effecta cleaning, disinfecting and/or sterilizing action on exposed portionsof the head 14 while it passes in the intended direction 31 along thepath of travel 30 on the interior of the housing 12.

Each of the reservoirs 34 and 34′ are associated with a differentdispenser assembly 36 and 38 preferably, but not exclusively, in theform of separate pump and/or dispensing valve mechanisms which includespray nozzles or heads 36″ and 38″. As also represented each of thedispenser assemblies 36 and 38, being in the form of pump mechanisms,may each include a dip tube 36′ and 38′ respectively, which are disposedwithin the interior of the corresponding reservoirs 34 and 34′. In amost preferred embodiment of the present invention each of the pumpmechanisms 36 and 38 defining respective ones of dispenser assembliesare operative when a downward or other appropriately directed force isexerted thereon. The applied force is of sufficient magnitude to causethe dispensing of the cleaning fluid from within the respective fluidreservoirs 34 and 34′ onto at least a portion of an applicator assembly40, to be described in greater detail with specific reference to FIG. 7through 10.

Dispensing of the cleaning fluid is accomplished by operativeinteraction of the fluid supply assembly 32 and more specifically, thedispenser assemblies 36 and 38 with an activating assembly generallyindicated as 63. The activating assembly 63 includes at least one butpreferably a plurality of activating members 64 preferably in the formof lever arms and which are equal in number to the one or more fluidreservoirs 34 and 34′ and associated dispenser assemblies 36 and 38. Asshould be apparent, each of the one or more activating members 64 aremovably connected on the interior of the housing 12 and are normallybiased or otherwise positioned into an initial position represented inFIG. 4. However, the connection and structure of each of the activatingmembers 64 is such as to facilitate cooperative disposition of theactivating members 64 into an operative position represented in FIG. 5.

With primary reference to FIG. 4, the initial position of the activatingmembers 64 are such as to be disposed in substantially interruptiverelation to the path of travel 30 and more specifically, in interruptiverelation to the head 14 passing in the intended direction 31 along thepath of travel 30. Accordingly, once the head 14 passes into theentrance 24 and begins to travel along the aforementioned path of travel30, portions of the head 14 located on the interior of the casing 12will engage each of the activating members 64 in driving relationthereto forcing the activating members 64 into an operative positionrepresented in FIG. 5. As such, a substantial “camming” action willoccur between the forced travel of the head 14 and the engaged portionsof the activating members 64. Such driven engagement will force theactivating members 64 into the operative position of FIG. 5 and intooperative, activating position and/or relation to the respectivedispenser assemblies 36 and 38.

Such operative engagement between the activating members 64 and thedispenser assemblies 36 and 38 involves an appropriately directeddriving and/or operating force being applied to the respective dispenserassemblies 36 and 38 and accordingly the pump mechanisms definedthereby. An appropriate mechanical linkage assembly, collectivelyrepresented in FIGS. 3 through 6, 11 and 12, is disposed and structuredto operatively interconnect each of the activating members 64 withcorresponding ones of the dispenser assemblies 36 and 38 respectively.

As represented the mechanical linkage assembly may assume a variety ofstructural and operative features which serve to transfer a sufficientdriving or activating force from the activating members 64 to thedispenser assemblies or pump mechanisms 36 and 38. Such a driving,activating force will be established by the activating members 64 beingforcibly driven by their engagement with the head 14 as it passes alongthe path of travel 30 in the intended direction 31. Accordingly, theoperative position of the activating assembly 63 and more specifically,the activating members 64 may be further defined by their drivenengagement with the head portion 14 and their concurrent driving,operative relation to each of the dispenser assemblies 36 and 38, due tothe provision of the aforementioned and represented linkage assembly, asthe head portion 14 passes along the path of travel 30.

With primary reference to FIGS. 4-6, 11 and 12, operative features ofthe cleaning assembly 10 of the present invention are more clearlyrepresented by a more detailed description of the structural andoperative components primarily, but not exclusively, associated with thelinkage assembly. In addition, the operative inter-workings of thevarious components associated with the mechanical linkage assembly willbetter facilitate an understanding of the cooperative structuring andoperation of the activating assembly 63. This will be demonstrated interms of the activating members 64 engaging and being driven by the head14 into the operative position generally indicated in FIG. 5, as thehead 14 travels along the intended path of travel 30 in the intendeddirection 31. Accordingly, a mounting frame 60 is connected on theinterior of the casing 12 and is structured to at least partially andpreferably removably support and cooperatively position the fluid supplyassembly 32 and the activating assembly 63. As will be apparent theintended cooperative positioning of the fluid supply 32 and theactivating assembly 63 is such as to force a dispensing of the cleaningfluid from each of the reservoirs 34 and 34′ by means of appropriateforces being exerted on the respective dispenser assemblies 36 and 38which, as set forth above, may be in the form of pump mechanisms. Asrepresented throughout the accompanying Figures, each of the one or morepump or dispensing valve mechanisms defining the dispenser assemblies 36and 38 also include a spray head or nozzle 36″ and 38″

As represented in FIGS. 11 and 12, each of the activating members orlever arms 64 pass through appropriate apertures 65 in the mountingplate 60. Moreover, the lever arms 64 communicate with the additionalmechanical linkage, represented in FIG. 6, located on the opposite orrear side of the mounting frame 60. Accordingly, passage of the head 14along the path of travel 30, 31 will cause an outward pivotal movementor separation of the first lever arms 64 from the initial position ofFIG. 5 to the operative position of FIG. 6.

As represented in FIGS. 4 through 6, the lever arms 64 are alsoconnected to individual gear segments 69 on the opposite side of themounting frame 60 relative to the actuating members, lever arms 64. Assuch each gear segment is movable with a corresponding one of the leverarms 64 as they pass from the initial position of FIG. 5 to theoperative position of FIG. 6. Of course, it recognized that the termgear segment 69 can refer to an actual gear or other mechanism whichachieves the desired movement. As also shown in FIG. 6, each of the gearsegments 69 are disposed in meshed engagement with one another and areattached to separate connecting links 70. In turn, each connecting link70 is movably connected and drivingly attached to corresponding ones ofa second set of lever arms 72. The lever arms 72 are connected in abiased relation to one another by a biasing spring 74 and are therebynormally maintained in the initial position as that of the first set oflever arms 64 as represented in FIG. 4.

Accordingly, a separation or appropriate relative movement of theactivating members, lever arms 64 as they engage the head 14 passingalong the path of travel 30, in the intended direction 31, will cause anoutwardly directed movement of the lever arms 72 in accordance withdirectional arrows 72′ as well as a substantially downward movement ofthe lower end of the secondary lever arms 72 as indicated by directionalarrows 72″.

As best represented in FIGS. 4 through 6, the lower ends of each of thelever arms 72 are connected to plunger members 78. Accordingly, as thelower ends of the lever arms 72 pass downwardly or in anotherappropriate direction 72″ they will forcibly engage and drive theplunger members 78. This will force each of the plunger members 78 toengage and apply an activating force to corresponding ones of thedispenser members 36 and 38, causing a dispensing of the cleaning fluid.Appropriate channels or elongated slots as at 79 and 79′ are provided ofsufficient dimension and configuration to facilitate the downwardpassage or other appropriately directed travel of both the plungermembers 78 and interconnected plunger heads 78′ associated therewith.

Therefore, as set forth above and explained with the schematicrepresentation of FIGS. 4 through 6 and 10, a single, unidirectional,one handed, “swiping” passage of the stethoscope head 14 into theentrance 24 and along the path of travel 30 will cause the separation ofthe activating members 64. Accordingly, the forced separation of theactivating members 64 will in turn deliver an activating force to thedispenser members 36 and 38. This activating force will cause cleaningfluid to be delivered to an applicator assembly 40 as represented inFIG. 7 through 10 and described in detail hereinafter.

With primary reference to FIG. 10, one preferred embodiment of theaforementioned applicator assembly 40 includes a plurality of applicatormembers 52, 54 and 56. It is emphasized that the intended spirit andscope of the present invention may include a greater or lesser number ofapplicator members and their disposition within the casing 12 may varyfrom that represented in FIG. 4. However, regardless of the variouspossible structural and operative modifications, the applicator assembly40 is disposed and structured to apply the cleaning fluid to theintended, exposed portions of the head 14. In addition in the embodimentof FIG. 10 a cleaning engagement and a finishing engagement is alsopreferably included to complete the cleaning procedure. Morespecifically, applicator member 52 comprises an at least partiallyabsorbent or non-absorbent applicator material as at 52′ disposed inreceiving relation to cleaning fluid being dispensed from the one ormore fluid reservoirs 34 and 34′. Accordingly, the dispenser assembliesor pump mechanisms 36 and 38 are disposed and structured to dispensefluid directly onto the applicator member material 52′. As the head 14travels along the path of travel 30, 31 it will engage and apply thecleaning fluid directly to the exposed, intended surfaces or portions ofthe cleaning head 14. It should be further noted that the dispenserassemblies 36 and 38 may include structural orientation featuresassociated therewith, such that the cleaning fluid will be consistentlydispensed on to an appropriate portion, as at 52, 52′ of the applicatorassembly 40 to assure proper cleaning of the head 14.

While at least one preferred embodiment of the present inventioncomprises the cleaning fluid delivered to the applicator member 52, itis also contemplated that the cleaning fluid could be applied directlyonto the surface(s) of the head 14 which are to be cleaned, rather thanon the applicator member. In such a modification, the applicator member52 would still be disposed and structured to perform the desireddistributing, wiping or other appropriate action on the surfaces of thehead 14 in order to facilitate the cleaning thereof.

Further with regard to the structure and function of the applicatorassembly 40, as the head 14 continues to travel along the path of travel30, in the intended direction 31 on the interior of the housing 12, itwill preferably engage a cleaning member 54′ mounted on or otherwisedirectly associated with the applicator member 54. In at least onepreferred embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning member 54′is defined by a brush and/or bristle array or assembly and/or contactelements. As such, the cleaning fluid existing on the intended portionsof the head 14 will be spread over and thoroughly engage all intendedportions of the cleaning head 14, including the diaphragm 16 and/orother contiguous surface portions. Further, the structuring of the brushor bristle array or assembly 54′ may be such as to provide an at leastmildly abrasive engagement or action so as to accomplish thoroughcleaning, disinfecting, sterilizing, etc. Naturally, materials otherthan a brush 54′ may be utilized and the cleaning engagement applied tothe diaphragm 16 and other portions of the head 14 may be other thanmildly abrasive.

As the cleaning head 14 continues to travel in the intended direction 31along the path of travel 30, it will engage a finishing structure 56′mounted on or directly associated with the applicator member 56. In atleast one preferred embodiment, the finishing member 56′ comprises oneor a plurality of “squeegee” members which engage exposed portions ofthe head 14 and as such serve to remove excess cleaning fluid stillremaining thereon. The head 14 will thereby be dried or at leastpartially dried. Subsequent to passage beyond the applicator member 56,the head 14 is removed from the interior of the housing 12 through theexit portion 26.

Accordingly, the squeegee assembly may include one or more ribs whichmay be flexible or otherwise appropriately structured to movably engagethe exposed diaphragm and/or rib surface of the head 14 so as to removeexcess cleaning fluid there from. Further, the squeegee assembly islocated on the interior of the housing 12 and as such will direct,deposit or otherwise facilitate collection of the removed, excesscleaning fluid on the interior of the housing 12 for eventual removal,as indicated.

It is emphasized that while the structures and materials of the one ormore applicator members 52, 52′; 54, 54′ and/or 56, 56′ may be disposedand structured to provide a different type of cleaning engagement withthe surfaces or parts of the head portion intended to be cleaned, all ofthe different types of cleaning procedures may be accurately andgenerically described herein as performing a “cleaning action”.

As set forth above, the applicator assembly 40 can include a pluralityof applicator members which may vary in position, number and purpose. Byway of example, the embodiment of FIGS. 4-8 and 11 may differ from theembodiment of FIG. 10 by including an applicator assembly 40 preferablycomprising two applicator members including a combined absorbentapplicator member 52 and/or cleaning brush type structure or array 54.Accordingly, it is intended that one or more of the various members 52,54, 56, etc. may be combined in function and structure, at least to theextent of effectively and efficiently cleaning the intended and exposedportions of the cleaning head 14 as it passes along the intended path oftravel 30, 31.

As also clearly represented in FIGS. 7 through 9, 11 and 12, the fluidsupply assembly 32 along with the individual fluid dispensers 36 and 38may be effectively combined to define a removable, replaceable cartridgeassembly collectively indicated as 100. Moreover, one or more of thecartridge assemblies 100 may be removed, replaced, repaired, refilled,etc. and as such are securely but removably connected to the carrierframe 60. As such, a mounting panel 35′ may be structured to supportand/or have secured thereon the plurality of applicator members 52, 54,56, etc. and be fixedly or removably connected to the base 35. Also, thebase 35 of the supporting panel 35′ may be interconnected to the fluidsupply assembly 32, including the supply container 32′, wherein theseparate reservoirs 34 and 34′ are also operatively connected tocontainer 32′. Accordingly, the assembled cartridge 100, as representedin FIGS. 6-8, comprises the combined fluid supply assembly 32 andapplicator assembly 40 and may be removably connected to the carrierframe 60, as best represented in FIGS. 11 and 12. Removable attachmentof the cartridge 100 may be accomplished by connectors 80 by otherappropriate means. As such, the bracket like connectors 80 may be usedto facilitate the attachment of other operative components of thecleaning assembly 10 including the various individual linkage componentsalso represented in FIGS. 11 and 12.

Accordingly, it should be apparent that effective and reliable cleaningof exposed portions of the head 14 can be accomplished by a single,unidirectional, “swipe” of the cleaning head 14 along the path of travel30. Therefore, repeatedly passing or like reciprocally directed movementor travel of the cleaning head 14 is not required. As such, many of thedisadvantages and problems recognized in conventional or known cleaningdevices intended for this purpose are overcome.

Additional structural features of the present invention are representedin FIGS. 1 and 2 and comprise an indicator assembly generally indicatedas 90. The indicator assembly may include a plurality of related andoperatively appropriate components including a viewing structure such aswindow 92 cooperatively disposed on the housing and/or on the one ormore reservoirs 34 and 34′ and/or the fluid supply container 32′. Assuch, the quantity of cleaning fluid remaining therein may be visuallyobserved. A user can determine when additional cleaning fluid need bereplaced in the one or more reservoirs 34 and/or 34′ and/or the fluidsupply container 32′. In addition, the indicator assembly 90 may or maynot include a float structure 94 which may have an appropriate specificgravity to allow it to float on the top of the liquid level of thecleaning fluid. As such movement of the float structure 94 willcorrespond to the level of cleaning fluid remaining in one or both ofthe reservoirs 34 and/or 34′ and/or the fluid supply container 32′. Theembodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2 represent the indicator assembly 90including a single viewing structure or window 92 as well as a singlefloat structure 94. However, the intended spirit and scope of thepresent invention includes the indicator assembly 90 also comprising aplurality of such windows or viewing structures 92 and/or a plurality offloat structures 94. In either of these embodiments, the viewingstructures or windows 92, provided with or without the float structures94, are appropriately and operatively positioned relative to one or moreof the reservoirs 34 and 34′ and/or the fluid cartridge 32′ so as todetermine the remaining quantity of cleaning fluid in the cleaningassembly 10.

Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed toa removable, replaceable cartridge 100′ as represented in FIGS. 13 and14. The replaceable cartridge 100′ is operatively similar but at leastsomewhat structurally distinguishable from the removable cartridge 100as represented in FIGS. 7 through 9. Also, cartridge 100′ includes manyof the structural and operative features, set forth in detail above,with reference to the cartridge 100, including, but not limited to, afluid supply assembly 132 and an applicator assembly 140. In addition,the activating assembly 63, including at least one but preferably aplurality of activating members 64, is operatively associated with thedispenser assemblies 136 and 138 also in the manner described in detailabove and represented throughout the Figures.

Yet additional structural features of the removable, replaceablecartridge 100′ includes the fluid supply assembly 132 comprising atleast one but preferably two fluid reservoirs 134 and 134′ structuredfor containing cleaning fluid which is dispersed through interactionbetween the activating assembly 63, as set forth above, and thedispenser assemblies 136 and 138. As with the previously describedcartridge 100, each of the dispenser assemblies 136 and 138 include adispensing head or nozzle 136″ and 138″ as well as associated dip tubesor other dispensing components not specifically represented in FIGS. 13and 14. The removable cartridge 100′ further includes a fluid container132′ which may hold an appropriate amount of cleaning fluid. Thecleaning fluid contained within the fluid container 132′ may betransferred or otherwise disposed in fluid communicating with theindividual reservoirs 134 and 134′ or be independently stored therefrom.

As also represented in FIGS. 13 and 14, the removable, replaceablecartridge 100′ includes the aforementioned applicator assembly 140. Theapplicator assembly 140 comprises at least one but preferably aplurality of applicator members 152, 154, etc. disposed adjacent to oneanother along the supporting frame or base 135. It is emphasized thatwhile the applicator members 152 and 154 are represented in spacedrelation to one another on the supporting frame or base 135 they mayalso be disposed in substantially contiguous relation to one another,such that the ending of the applicator member 152 is contiguous to thebeginning of the applicator member 154. Further, the materials fromwhich the applicator members 152, 154, etc. are formed may differ so asto provide different “cleaning actions” when the applicator membersconfrontingly engage the surfaces of the head portion intended to beclean.

As described with specific reference to the embodiment of FIG. 10, thematerials from which the applicator members 152, 154, etc. are formedmay provide different types of cleaning actions such as, but not limitedto, wiping, finishing, cleaning or providing a mild abrasive action,etc. Further by way of example, applicator member 152 may comprise an atleast partially absorbent or non-absorbent applicator material disposedin receiving relation to cleaning fluid being dispensed from the one ormore fluid reservoirs 134 and 134′. As such, the dispenser assemblies136 and 138 and specifically the spray heads or nozzles 136″ and 138″are disposed and structured to dispose fluid directly on to the uppermost applicator member 152. The additional one or more applicatormembers 154, etc. are disposed somewhat beneath the upper mostapplicator member 152 and as such may receive, through gravity flow, thecleaning fluid dispensed onto the upper most applicator member 152. Inorder to accomplish such preferred directional dispensing of thecleaning fluid, it should be noted that in the embodiment of FIGS. 13and 14, as well as the embodiment of the cartridge 100 as represented inFIGS. 7 through 9, the dispenser assemblies 136 and 138 are locatedsomewhat “forward” of the applicator assembly 140. This disposition,along with a predetermined spray pattern issuing from the spray heads ornozzles 136″ and 138″ serves to preferably direct the cleaning fluidonto the upper most one of the applicator members 152. Thereafter,gravity flow of the cleaning fluid, as well as the travel of the headportion itself, will serve to at least partially transfer some of thecleaning fluid onto the other one or more applicator members 154, etc.However, structural modifications or other embodiments of the cartridgeassemblies 100, 100′ may also include the cleaning fluid being applieddirectly to the intended exposed surfaces of the head portion oralternately to additional ones of the applicator members 152, 154, etc.As also explained with regard to the embodiment of FIG. 10, as the head14 continues to travel along the path of travel 30 in the intendeddirection 31 on the interior of the housing 12, it will preferablyengage each of the plurality of applicator members 152, 154, etc.

In addition, the applicator assemblies 40 and 140, specificallyincluding the respective applicator members associated therewith, mayalso include an appropriate cleaning agent, preferably in the form of anantimicrobial agent, incorporated and/or integrated directly in at leastone or all of the plurality of applicator members. Moreover, theincorporation of such an antimicrobial agent directly into the materialsof the plurality of applicator members would further enhance thecleaning of the head portion coming into contact therewith. Morespecifically, the structure of one or all of the applicator members issuch that the antimicrobial agent integrated or incorporated thereinwill be applied to the engaged surfaces or portions of the head as ittravels along the path of travel. Of course this will be in addition tothe cleaning fluid directed on to the applicator member(s) through thespray heads or nozzles from the respective reservoirs. Also, suchintegration or incorporation of an appropriate antimicrobial agent willhave the additional feature of preventing or significantly reducing theability of microorganisms to colonize on the applicator members or otherdirectly associated parts of the applicator assembly 40 and/or 140.

Further, in order to effectively assure that all of the intendedsurfaces of the head portion 14 are cleaned, at least one, butpreferably all, of the applicator members 152, 154, etc. are formed of amalleable material. More specifically, the malleable material from whichone or more of the applicator members 152, 154, etc. are formed hassufficient flexibility or other “conforming capabilities” to engage andthereby provide an appropriate cleaning action thereto. As noted herein,a typical structure of a head portion 14 of a stethoscope may includethe centrally disposed diaphragm 16 and the surrounding of retaining rim18. Accordingly, the malleable material from which one or more of theapplicator members 152, 154, etc. are at least partially formed includessufficient physical characteristics to assure conformance of therespective applicator members 152, 154, etc. to all of the exposedsurfaces of the head portion 14 which are intended to be cleaned.

Additional structural features of the preferred embodiment of thecartridge assembly 100′ may also include an indicator assembly generallyindicated as 90 and specifically represented in the embodiments of FIGS.1 and 2. The indicator assembly 90 may include a plurality of relatedand operatively appropriate components including a viewing structure,such as a window 92 cooperatively disposed on the housing or otherviewable portions of the cartridge assembly 100′ so as to view theinterior content of the reservoirs 134 and 134′ and/or the fluidcontainer 132′. As a result, quantity determination of cleaning fluidremaining therein may be established. This will further facilitate adetermination as to when the cartridge 100 or 100′ need be removed fromthe housing 12 and replaced by a different “full” cartridge. Naturally,the cartridge 100 and 100′ may be replaced for other reasons such asreplacement or repair of the applicator members associated with theapplicator assembly 40 or 140 and/or a malfunction of the dispenserassemblies associated with the removable, replaceable cartridgeassemblies 100 and 100′.

In addition, in order to assure that the cartridge 100 or 100′ isproperly but removably disposed in its intended operative positionwithin the housing 12, an appropriate locking assembly may be disposedon or within the housing and structured to securely but removablyconnect the cartridge(s) 100 or 100′ in the aforementioned operativeposition. Further, such a locking assembly could be structured toproduce a “click” or other appropriate sound indicating that thecartridge 100 or 100′ is properly connected.

With primary reference to FIG. 14, additional structural features of thecartridge 100′ may include a “disinfecting station” comprising a hand,automatic, or manually activated dispensing assembly 150. As a partthereof, a dispensing element 152 is disposed and structured to dispensepredetermined quantities of a cleaning fluid, represented in phantomlines in FIG. 14, from the interior of the fluid container 132′. Thiscleaning fluid may be used to clean or disinfect an operator's hands,wherein the cleaning fluid dispensed through the manual or hand operateddispensing assembly 150 may include any of a variety of different typesof hand gels, foams or solutions appropriately formulated for use as atopical application for cleaning the hands of the user. Accordingly thevarious embodiments of the cleaning assembly 10 of the present inventiondemonstrate additional versatility through the possible provision of thedisinfecting assembly or station 170 and release element 172 located onthe housing in a readily accessible and convenient location. As such,users of the cleaning assembly 10 may use the disinfecting station 170to clean, disinfect, etc. their hands, before and/or after use of thecleaning assembly 10.

As set forth above, the various structural and operative components ofthe cleaning assembly of the present invention may vary depending on thepractical application and/or desired operational features. Accordingly,with primary reference to FIGS. 15-17, yet another embodiment of thepresent invention includes a removable, replaceable cartridge 200structured to be removably disposed within the housing or casing 12, asdescribed above. The cartridge 200 includes a support or carrier frame210 which also may vary in structure and be connected to a plurality ofoperative components of the cartridge assembly 200. In addition, thecartridge assembly 200 may include connecting or mounting structures 212which facilitate the removable, replaceable securement of the cartridgeassembly 212 within the interior of the housing or casing 12. Moreover,as with the cartridge assemblies 100 and 100′, as described above, thecartridge assembly 200 may be easily removed, replaced, repaired,refilled, etc. as needed. The cartridge assembly 200 also includes abase 260 secured to the frame 210 or integrally and/or fixedly connectedas a part thereof.

Additional structural features of the removable, replaceable cartridgeassembly 200 includes a fluid supply assembly generally indicated as 232and including at least one but preferably a plurality of at least twofluid reservoirs 234 and 234′. Each of the fluid reservoirs 234 and 234′are operatively associated with a dispenser assembly includingindividual, correspondingly disposed dispenser structures 236 and 238.Each of the dispenser structures 236 and 238 include a dispensing heador nozzle 236′ and 238′ which may be associated with a pump or otherfluid dispensing structure. A dip tube or other access component may beused to communicate directly with the cleaning fluid disposed within theindividual fluid reservoirs 234 and 234′ or a common supply 232′ of thecleaning fluid. As set forth above, structural details of an appropriatepump or like dispenser device as well as the associated dip tube orother dispensing components may be considered the structural andoperational equivalent as that used with the preferred embodiments ofFIGS. 1-14.

Additional structural features of the removable, replaceable cartridgeassembly 200 include the provision of an applicator assembly generallyindicated as 240. In this preferred embodiment, the applicator assembly240 includes a plurality of applicator segments 242 connected to a base260 and extending outwardly therefrom into the path of travel 30, 31 asdescribed with reference to FIGS. 1 and 10 and into interruptive,engaging relation to the head portion 14 as it moves there along. Aswith the embodiments of FIGS. 1-14, the housing 12 includes an entranceportion and an exit portion and the path of travel 30 extends therebetween. The housing 12 and the path of travel are structured tofacilitate the swiping motion and movement of the head portion 14 on theinterior of the casing and along the path of travel 30 in the direction31. As set forth above, the cleaning action or cleaning procedure isperformed at least on the diaphragm 16 and retaining rim 18, at least inpart, by engagement by the applicator assembly 240 and plurality ofapplicator segments. Further, at least some or more practically at leasta majority or all of the plurality of applicator segments 242 areinclined at a sufficiently angular orientation relative to the base 260so as to provide the intended cleaning action on the engaged portions ofthe head portion 14, while at the same time serving to remove excessfluid or other unwanted remnants from the diaphragm 16 and retaining rim18. In one embodiment this inclination is downward towards the base 260so movement is directed towards the base, however, it is recognized thatthe inclination could also be downward away from the base 260 so thatmovement is directed away from the base.

More specifically, the plurality of applicator segments 242 may includean interior channel 243 having a substantially concave, transversecross-sectional configuration, wherein the interior channel 243 extendsalong the length of the applicator segments 242 from a front or free endthereof to the exposed surface of the base 260. Moreover, the inclined,angular orientations of the plurality of applicator segments 242 alongwith the provision of the concave interior recesses 243, will serve toprovide a cleaning action on the engaged portions of the head portion 14and also have a tendency to at least partially remove excess fluid andunwanted remnants from the head portion 14, by directing such remnantsaway from the engaged surfaces of the head portion 14. As a result, theengaged portions of the head portion 14 will be cleaned and free ofunwanted remnants. In order to provide an appropriate an intendedcleaning action on the head portion 14, the plurality of applicatorsegments 242 are formed of a flexible, resilient material whichfacilitates an at least minimal conforming of each of the applicatorsegments 242 to the surfaces of the head portion 14 which are engagedthereby. However, the plurality of applicator segments 242 may have atleast a minimal amount of semi-rigid characteristics to be “shapestable”. As such the applicator segments 242 are able to assume theirintended position, orientation and configuration as clearly representedin FIGS. 15 and 16 after engaging and performing a cleaning action onthe head portion 14 as it moves along the path of travel 30, 31 on theinterior of the housing or casing 12 and along the length of thecartridge 200.

In order to engage intended surface portions of the head portion 14 andperform the intended cleaning action on at least the diaphragm 16 andretaining rim 18, the plurality of applicator segments 242 are arrangedin a predetermined array, which could be random or symmetric. Oneembodiment of such a predetermined array is represented in FIGS. 15 and16 and comprises the plurality of applicator segments 242 being spacedlaterally as well as longitudinally from one another, respectively alongthe width and length of the base 260. As should be apparent, the terms“width” and “length”, when referring to the base 260, is meant todescribe lateral and longitudinal dimensions of the base 260, when thecartridge assembly 200 is in the operative orientation as represented inFIGS. 15-17. Accordingly, the predetermined array of the plurality ofapplicator segments 242, as well as the structure, disposition andorientation thereof, facilitate both the application and a partialremoval of the cleaning fluid relative to the engaged portions of thehead portion 14 as it moves along the path of travel 30, 31. Therefore,the predetermined array of the plurality of applicator segments 242 alsoincludes spaced apart groupings of applicator segments, as at 242′ and242″, separated by an extended panel portion 245, as represented in FIG.16. It is emphasized that the structure, disposition, dimensions and/orconfigurations of the predetermined array, as well as that of thecomponents of which it is comprised, may vary from that represented inthe embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16. However, common to a plurality of thevarious structural modifications which may define the different possiblepredetermined arrays is the ability to remove excess fluid from thediaphragm 16 and retaining rim 18, while leaving at least a thin film orcoating of cleaning fluid thereon. Again, the coating or film ofcleaning fluid remaining on the head portion 14 should not be excessivein quantity but still sufficient to further facilitate the disinfectionof the head portion 14 after it passes from the path of travel 30, 31and out of the housing 12, where the film or coating naturallyevaporates. Therefore, as the head portion 14 passes along the path oftravel 30, 31, it will engage at least some of the plurality ofapplicator segments 242 which will perform the aforementioned cleaningaction on the engaged surfaces thereof. Thereafter, as the head portion14 reaches the extended portion 245 of the panel 244, a substantiallycentrally located portion of the diaphragm 16 and retaining rim 18 willpass from and beyond any of the applicator segments 242 and pass over,but not necessarily engage, the extended portion 245 of the panel 244.However, the lateral or side portions of the diaphragm 16 and retainingrim 18 will engage the spaced apart groupings 242′ and 242″ of theapplicator segments 242, wherein cleaning fluid and cleaning action willstill be applied thereto, while facilitating the removal of unwantedremnants from these lateral or side portions. As a result, a coating,film or like quantity of the cleaning fluid will remain on the diaphragm16 and retaining rim 18 of head portion 14 even after it is removed fromthe path of travel 30 and the casing 12. The quantity of the remainingcoating of the cleaning fluid still present on the diaphragm 16 and/orretaining rim 18 will be such as to evaporate in the normal fashion oncethe head portion 14 is removed from the casing 12, while still acting toaid in the disinfecting of the head portion 14.

In order to assure removal of excess cleaning fluid while assuring thatan at least minimal quantity in the form of the aforementioned coatingor film of the cleaning fluid remains on the head portion 14, a skimmerassembly may be provided in at least one preferred embodiment of thepresent invention. The skimmer assembly of the embodiment of FIGS. 15and 16 includes a plurality of skimmer structures or members 247,located at the lower or trailing periphery or peripheral end of thearray of the plurality of applicator segments 242. These skimmerstructures or members 247 will protrude, at least partially into thepath of travel 30 and into interruptive relation with thecorrespondingly disposed surfaces of the head portion 14. Due to theskimmer members 247 protruding outwardly from the base 260 and/or panel244, they will engage and provide a skimming or “squeegee” action on theengaged, surface portions of the head portion 14. Accordingly, anyexcess cleaning fluid will thereby be removed from these engagedsurfaces, while at least some or even a majority surface of thediaphragm 16 and retaining rim 18 of the head portion 14 maintains atleast a thin or minimal quantity in the form of a coating of thecleaning fluid thereon. As set forth above, the remaining coating ofcleaning fluid will be sufficient to further facilitate the disinfectingof the head portion 14 and subsequently evaporate, once the head portion14 is removed from the housing or casing 12.

Additional structural and operative features of the preferred embodimentof the cartridge assembly 200, as represented in FIGS. 15-17, includethe dispenser assemblies 236 and 238, including the dispenser heads ornozzles 236′ and 238′ being disposed in a predetermined relativedisposition and orientation relative to one another and to theapplicator assembly 240 and path of travel 30. More specifically, thedispenser heads or nozzles 236′ and 238′ are disposed in alongitudinally offset relation to one another. As represented in FIGS.15 and 16, dispenser assembly 236 and associated dispenser head ornozzle 236′ are located at a lower position along the length of the base260 and applicator assembly 240 relative to the higher longitudinalposition of the dispenser assembly 238 and dispensing header nozzle238′. Also, similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 7-9, the dispenserassemblies 236 and 238 and there associated dispenser heads or nozzles236′ and 238′ are located somewhat “forward” of the applicator assembly240.

This off-set disposition of the dispenser heads or nozzles 236′ and238′, serves to direct the cleaning fluid into the path of travel 30,forward of, but in communicating relation with, the applicator assembly240 and at different “higher and lower” portions of the path of travel30 and the applicator assembly 240. As such, the concurrent travel ofthe head portion 14 along the path of travel will expose it to thecleaning fluid as the cleaning fluid is directed into the path of travel30, in the manner set forth above. Thereafter, gravity flow of thecleaning fluid, as well as movement of the head portion 14, will serveto at least partially transfer the cleaning fluid onto all or at leastthe majority of the applicator segments 242 located beneath the actualintroduction of the cleaning fluid into the path of travel 30.

Yet additional structural and operative features associated with thecartridge assembly 200 include a display structure generally indicatedas 280. The display structure 280 includes a display field 282 connectedto the cartridge 200 and more specifically fixedly or removablyconnected to the frame 210. The display field 282 is more specificallydefined by an area of display on which various types of indicia may bedisposed. Such indicia may comprise advertising, trademarks, tradenames, logos, as well as, or in addition to, instructional orinformational displays. As such, the display field or display area 282is disposed exteriorly of the housing or casing 12 when the cartridge200 is removably mounted on the interior thereof. The display area orfield 282 is thereby clearly visible by users of the cleaning assemblyof the present invention and/or others in the vicinity thereof.

While not specifically described with the reference to the preferredembodiment of the removable cartridge assembly 200, the cleaning fluidcontained in the individual reservoirs 234 and 234′ or a central orcommon supply 232′ may have the same formulation as that described abovewith the embodiments of FIGS. 1-14. Similarly, activation of thedispenser assembly 236 and 238 is accomplished in the same substantialfashion as represented in the above the embodiments of the abovedescribed Figures wherein the dispenser assemblies 236 and 238 areactuated concurrently during and effectively by the passage of the headportion 14 along the path of travel 30 in the direction 31.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be madeto the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intendedthat all matters in the foregoing description and shown in theaccompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Now that the invention has been described,

1. An assembly structured to clean a head portion of a stethoscope, saidassembly comprising: a housing including an entrance portion and an exitportion and a path of travel for the head portion extendingtherebetween, said entrance and said exit portions respectivelystructured to facilitate entry and removal of the head portion relativeto a housing interior, a cartridge assembly disposed within said housingand including a fluid supply assembly connected thereto; said fluidsupply assembly structured for containment and dispensing of cleaningfluid, an applicator assembly including a base; a plurality ofapplicator segments connected to said base and extending outwardlytherefrom into engaging relation with the head portion moving along saidpath of travel, said plurality of applicator segments collectivelydisposed in predetermined array comprising both a lateral and alongitudinal relative spacing of said plurality of applicator segments,said predetermined array configured to apply and at least partiallyremove the cleaning fluid to and from the head portion, and anactivating assembly movably disposed into and out of actuating relationto said fluid supply assembly.
 2. An assembly as recited in claim 1further comprising a dispenser assembly connected to said fluid supplyassembly and disposed and structured to direct the cleaning fluid fromthe fluid supply into said path of travel and in communicating relationto said applicator assembly.
 3. An assembly as recited in claim 2wherein said dispenser assembly is disposed to concurrently directcleaning fluid to different portions of said path of travel.
 4. Anassembly as recited in claim 2 wherein said dispenser assembly comprisesat least two dispenser structures each operatively connected to saidfluid supply and disposed in a sufficiently longitudinal offset relationto one another to concurrently direct cleaning fluid to differentportions of said path of travel and in communicating relation to saidapplicator assembly.
 5. An assembly as recited in claim 4 wherein saidfluid supply assembly comprises at least two fluid reservoirs, each ofsaid two dispenser structures operatively connected to a different oneof said two fluid reservoirs.
 6. An assembly as recited in claim 5wherein said activating assembly comprises a plurality of activatingmembers disposed within said housing, each of said activating membersforcibly disposed in activating relation to a corresponding one of saiddispenser structures during passage of the head portion along said pathof travel.
 7. An assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein at least some ofsaid plurality of applicator segments extend outwardly from said base atan inclined orientation relative to said base and in engaging relationto the head portion moving along said path of travel.
 8. An assembly asrecited in claim 7 wherein said inclined orientation of said pluralityof applicator segments is sufficient to direct remnants away fromengaged portions of the head portion.
 9. An assembly as recited in claim8 wherein at least a majority of said plurality of applicator segmentsextend outwardly from said base at an inclined orientation relativethereto and in engaging relation to the head portion moving along saidpath of travel.
 10. An assembly as recited in claim 9 wherein saidmajority of said applicator segments further comprise an interiorchannel disposed and configured to direct the remnants away from engagedportions of the head portion.
 11. An assembly as recited in claim 10wherein each of said interior channels comprises a substantiallyconcave, transverse cross-sectional configuration extending along alength thereof.
 12. An assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein at leastsome of said plurality of applicator segments include an interiorchannel configured to direct remnants away from the engaged portions ofthe head portion.
 13. An assembly as recited in claim 12 wherein each ofsaid interior channels comprises a substantially concave, transversecross-sectional configuration extending along a length thereof.
 14. Anassembly as recited in claim 13 wherein each of said interior channelsare disposed at an inclined orientation sufficient to direct remnantsaway from portions of the head portion engaged by corresponding ones ofsaid plurality of applicator segments.
 15. An assembly as recited inclaim 1 wherein at least a majority said plurality of applicatorsegments are formed of a flexible, resilient material structured toapply a cleaning action to engaged portions of the head portion.
 16. Anassembly as recited in claim 15 wherein said flexible, resilientmaterial of said applicator segments is sufficiently semi-rigid to beshape stable.
 17. An assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising adisplay field connected to said cartridge and including a display areastructured to include indicia thereon; said display area disposed in anexposed position on an exterior of said housing.
 18. An assembly asrecited in claim 1 further comprising a skimmer assembly disposed alongsaid path of travel in interruptive relation to the head portion whenmoving along said path of travel; said skimmer assembly structured toremove excess cleaning fluid from at least a portion of the headportion.
 19. An assembly as recited in claim 18 wherein said skimmerassembly comprises at one skimmer member disposed at a trailing end ofsaid applicator assembly in engageable relation with correspondingsurface portions of the head portion when the head portion is movingalong said path of travel.
 20. An assembly as recited in claim 19wherein each of said skimmer assembly comprises a plurality of skimmermembers each including a curved configuration extending along aperiphery of said array of said plurality of applicator segments.
 21. Anassembly structured to clean a head portion of a stethoscope, saidassembly comprising: a housing including an entrance portion, an exitportion and a path of travel for the head portion extendingtherebetween, a cartridge assembly removably disposed within saidhousing and including a fluid supply assembly connected thereto; anapplicator assembly including a base and a plurality of applicatorsegments connected to said base and extending outwardly therefrom intoengaging relation with the head portion moving along said path oftravel, said plurality of applicator segments collectively disposed in apredetermined array comprising both a lateral and longitudinal spacingof said plurality of applicator segments along said base, a dispenserassembly including at least two dispenser structures each operativelyconnected to said fluid supply assembly; and said at least two dispenserstructures disposed in a sufficiently offset relation to one another todirect cleaning fluid from said fluid supply assembly to differentportions of said path of travel and in communicating relation to saidapplicator assembly.
 22. An assembly as recited in claim 21 wherein saidtwo dispenser structures are disposed in a longitudinally offsetrelation to one another so as to direct cleaning fluid to differentlongitudinally offset portions of said path of travel and incommunicating relation to said applicator assembly concurrently tomovement of the head portion along said path of travel.
 23. An assemblyas recited in claim 22 wherein said fluid supply assembly comprises atleast two fluid reservoirs, each of said two dispenser structuresoperatively connected to a different one of said two fluid reservoirs.24. An assembly as recited in claim 21 wherein at least some of saidplurality of applicator segments extend outwardly from said base at aninclined orientation relative thereto and in engaging relation to thehead portion moving along said path of travel; said inclined orientationof said plurality of applicator segments being sufficiently oriented todirect remnants away from engaged portions of the head portion.
 25. Anassembly as recited in claim 21 wherein at least a majority of saidapplicator segments extend outwardly from said base at an inclinedorientation and in engaging relation to the head portion moving alongthe path of travel, said majority of said plurality of applicatorsegments being sufficiently angularly oriented to direct remnants awayfrom engage portions of the head portion and comprising an interiorchannel including a substantially concave, transverse cross-sectionalconfiguration extending along the length of said channel.
 26. Anassembly as recited in claim 25 wherein each of said interior channelsare disposed at an inclined orientation sufficient to direct remnantsaway from portions of the head portion engaged by corresponding ones ofsaid plurality of applicator segments.
 27. An assembly as recited inclaim 26 wherein at least a majority said plurality of applicatorsegments are formed of a flexible, resilient material structured toapply a cleaning action to engaged portions of the head portion.
 28. Anassembly as recited in claim 21 further comprising a skimmer assemblydisposed along said path of travel in interruptive relation to the headportion when moving along said path of travel; said skimmer assemblystructured to only remove excess cleaning fluid from correspondinglydisposed surfaces of the head portion.
 29. An assembly as recited inclaim 28 wherein said skimmer assembly comprises at least two spacedapart skimmer members disposed at a trailing end of said applicatorassembly in engageable relation with opposite lateral side portions ofthe head portion moving along said path of travel.
 30. An assembly asrecited in claim 21 further comprising a display field connected to saidcartridge and including a display area structured to include indiciathereon; said display area disposed in a visually exposed position on anexterior of said housing.